Celebrating Christ's Birth Around The World
Celebrating Christ's Birth Around The World
Isaiah 9:6 (ESV) reads, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Christmas is a great reminder of God’s love through the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s also a time of joy, reflection, reunion, and worship for Christians around the world. Across EduDeo’s 13 partner countries, Christmas is celebrated in unique and meaningful ways!
While the festivities differ from country to country, one thing remains constant: the focus on Christ’s birth and His redemptive love for the world. Here’s a glimpse of how some of our global partners celebrate Christmas:
Nicaragua
In Nicaragua, Christmas is celebrated with family, food, and festive traditions. On December 24, families gather for a late dinner, wearing their best clothes. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, music fills the streets, and children enjoy staying up late. Homes are decorated with trees, lights, and ornaments, and gifts are often exchanged.
Traditional foods that are mostly enjoyed includes dishes like stuffed chicken, rice, salad, and “Maduros en gloria” (ripe plantains with milk and cinnamon). Popular desserts include Pío V and Sopa Borracha!
On December 25, families would rest, and feast while reflecting on Jesus’ birth through church services and other community performances. The midnight fireworks, family time, and generosity make Christmas in Nicaragua special for everyone, including visitors.
Ghana
Christmas in Ghana brings families and communities together. It’s a time to reconnect after long periods apart from loved ones. Special meals like chicken stew with Fufu, Banku, or rice are prepared. Food is shared with neighbours and those in need, ensuring everyone has enough to eat.
Schools host carol services where children perform dramas about the birth of Jesus, and churches hold special worship services. In some villages, children will sing and drum from one doorstep to another in exchange for food and gifts. Larger cities sometimes host lively masquerade festivals, full of music, dance, and colourful costumes.
Guatemala
In Guatemala, churches hold special services with songs, prayers, and Bible readings. Families pray together and give gifts to vulnerable children. Special festive meals like tamales, turkey, and fruit punch are enjoyed to mark the day.
Malawi
In Malawi, Christmas is often celebrated with families and church communities. The day begins with church services featuring carols, prayers, and Bible readings. Families prepare special meals like rice and chicken, often served with soft drinks like Fanta or Coca-Cola.
In rural areas, people celebrate with storytelling, bonfires, and door-to-door dances. Cultural dances like Vimbuza and Chilimika bring communities together. Many people wear new clothes to mark the day, and communities reflect on Jesus’ birth by helping those in need. Bible verses like Isaiah 7:14 and Luke 2:10-11 are shared to highlight the meaning of Jesus’ birth. Visitors who come to the country would notice the deep sense of family, sharing, and collective joy as people gather with neighbours and extended families to feast and celebrate Christ’s birth.
Rwanda
In Rwanda, Christmas is a time to share love and joy, especially with those in need. Churches and schools host children’s parties, sharing Bible stories about Jesus’ birth and gifts.
On Christmas Eve, visits are made to families in need, like orphaned children and senior homes. Gifts such as rice cooking oil, soap, and sweets are given to help them celebrate.
As we reflect on these celebrations, we see how the global church honours Jesus’ birth in diverse and beautiful ways. Christ’s love unites people across cultures, languages, and traditions!
Merry Christmas!